What Happens If You Are Found Not Guilty

Updated on Tuesday 18th October 2016

Rate this article

551 based on 1 reviews

If an individual is charged with a criminal offence, he/she will be considered not guilty until his or her guilt will be proven, according to the law, and will be recognized by the legal judgment of the Magistrates Court in the United Kingdom. Our defence solicitors in London offer suitable guidance, information and legal representation for every individual charged with criminal offences, in order to obtain the proper solution upon their case.

Opening declarations

Each side may outline the evidence to be offered to the jury during the process. Opening statements are not evidence, only expectations of what each side presumes the evidence to show.

Presentation of evidence and witnesses testimony

The appellant's or prosecution's case will be presented first. When the witness testifies, he or she will be asked questions by the attorneys, in a direct trial. Evidence like papers, photos or weapons will be accepted as proofs and numbered for documentation. During the hearing, if a lawyer objects to a question, he will present his objection to the judge. These are questions that contain legal details and may be argued out of the defendant’s hearing.

Closing arguments

The attorneys will recap the evidence and will try to convince the jury to find in favor of their client. The appellant has the burden of proof and therefore has the chance to open and close the arguments.

Deliberation – if you are found not guilty

In this stage, the jury will retire to the deliberation room to reflect upon the case and to reach a verdict. If the jurors have questions or doubts during their deliberation, they can write them down and have the law officer send them to the judge. When a verdict has been reached, the jurors will inform the bailiff. If the verdict is „not guilty”, the defendant is free of any charges and the trial can be closed. In order for you to be found not guilty, it is recommended to be advised by our defence solicitors in London, that are specialized in a wide range of criminal cases.

Please feel free to contact our team of lawyers in London for any other information or legal assistance.